FMEP Legislative Round-Up March 21, 2025

Resource

1. Bills, Resolutions
2. Letters
3. Hearings
4. Selected Members on the Record
5. Selected Media & Press releases/Statements

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts podcast:

1. Bills & Resolutions

(TARGETING FOREIGN STUDENTS FOR FREE SPEECH CRITICAL OF ISRAEL) HR 2204: Introduced 3/18/25 by Langworthy (R-NY) and 6 Republican cosponsors, “To require an institution of higher education that becomes aware that a student having nonimmigrant status under subparagraph (F)(i) or (J) of section 101(a)(15) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)) has endorsed or supported a foreign terrorist organization to notify the SEVIS, and for other purposes”, aka the “Veto Your Visas Act.” Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and the Committee on Education and Workforce. Press release — Congressman Langworthy Introduces Bill to Remove Visa and Begin Deportation Process for Any Students Supportive of Foreign Terrorist Organizations [Excerpt from press release – “’I commend the Trump Administration and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, on taking swift action against Khalil. It is a privilege to come to the United States to study and learn—it is not a free pass to come here and spread hate and support terrorism. This legislation would ensure anyone here on a student visa who supports a Foreign Terrorist Organization will be deported, protecting our national security and making it clear we have zero tolerance for terrorism,’ Congressman Langworthy said in a statement on Tuesday.” Also see: US Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Deport Foreign Students Who Support Terror Groups (Algemeiner 3/20/25)

(REPEAL ALIEN REGISTRATION ACT) HR 2129: Introduced 3/14/25 by Jayapal (D-WA) and 25 Democratic cosponsors, “To repeal the Alien Registration Act of 1940.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: Jayapal to Introduce Legislation to Stop Trump from Weaponizing WWII-Era Law Against Immigrants

(US-ISRAEL EXPANDED ENERGY COOPERATION) Jewish Insider 3/21/25: Bipartisan House members set to reintroduce U.S.-Israel energy cooperation legislation

2. Letters

  • [NEED ANSWERS RE ARREST/DETENTION OF MAHMOUD KHALIL] 2/21/25: Welch Leads Colleagues in Demanding Answers from State and DHS About Arrest and Detainment of Mahmoud Khalil [letter text, dated 3/20/25] – “On March 8, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials arrested and detained Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful permanent resident of the United States. All available evidence demonstrates that Mr. Khalil was targeted because of his involvement in political protests at Columbia University related to the war in Gaza. To be clear, there is no justification for antisemitism, whether from the left or the right side of the political spectrum, and hate-fueled violence and threats of violence should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. But even a White House official acknowledged that ‘the allegation [in this case] was not that [Mr. Khalil] is breaking the law.’ The First Amendment of the United States Constitution protects the right to free speech of all people in the United States. In fact, the Supreme Court has unambiguously stated: ‘Freedom of speech and of press is accorded to aliens residing in this country.’ Attempts by the government to punish an individual simply for espousing political views it disagrees with are wrong and unconstitutional. Public statements by government officials leave little doubt as to the basis of Mr. Khalil’s arrest, and the circumstances of Mr. Khalil’s arrest and basis for his detention further amplifies these concerns. Initially, the ICE officials who arrested him apparently did not even know his current immigration status. Officials reportedly stated that they intended to revoke Mr. Khalil’s student visa. It was only after learning that Mr. Khalil was not a student visa holder, but had lawful permanent residence in the United States (i.e., a green card), that ICE agents told Mr. Khalil that his green card would be revoked.  Notably, State Department consular officials and ICE agents can and do access immigration status information in the normal course of implementing immigration laws, but it seems that no such due diligence occurred in Mr. Khalil’s case. Revoking a green card requires additional due process, but there is no evidence to suggest that the required process has even been initiated. It appears that Mr. Khalil has been placed in removal proceedings to occur in front of an immigration judge based on a personal determination by Secretary Rubio that there is a compelling foreign policy interest to deport him based on his “beliefs, statements, and associations,” rather than any violation of U.S. law.6 If such a determination exists, it appears to only have been developed after his arrest. Furthermore, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, such a determination by the Secretary of State requires the Secretary to provide timely notice to the Chairs of the Committees on the Judiciary in the House and Senate, as well as the Committee on Foreign Affairs in the House and the Committee on Foreign Relations in the Senate, on the identity of the noncitizen and the reasons for the determination. So far, we understand that no such notice and justification has been provided to Congress. In addition, Mr. Khalil is eligible for release from ICE detention, but remains in ICE custody thousands of miles from his wife, an American citizen who is eight months pregnant. These widely reported facts suggest that immigration enforcement efforts against Mr. Khalil are designed to punish free speech and lawful political activity, rather than to enforce laws or preserve the public safety, national security, or foreign policy interests of the United States. This is precisely the type of retaliation our Constitution is designed to protect against. Troublingly, White House officials have reportedly stated that Mr. Khalil’s case is a ‘blueprint’ for more investigations into student protestors. One does not need to agree with Mr. Khalil’s political views or speech to understand that in our great nation, freedom of expression is paramount. Every person in this country has the right to express his or her views without fear of reprisal by the U.S. government. We urge you to abandon this pretextual abuse of our nation’s immigration laws against Mr. Khalil and others for expressing political views that you dislike. The failure to do so is a threat to the core freedoms that this nation was founded upon…”
  • [DO MORE TO FIGHT CRITICISM OF ISRAEL – SORRY, I MEAN FIGHT ANTISEMITISM!] 3/19/25: Meng Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging Trump Administration to Nominate Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism [letter text] – “…The letter was led by Rep. Meng, a co-chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, with eight House Democrats and Republicans co-chairs including Don Bacon (R-NE), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Randy Weber (R-TX) Marc Veasey (D-TX), Haley Stevens (D-MI), and Rep. Dan Meuser (R-PA). In total, 62 members from both parties joined the letter. It is supported by the American Jewish Committee, Anti-Defamation League, Orthodox Union, National Council of Jewish Women, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Agudah Israel, B’nai B’rith International, National Council Supporting Eurasian Jewry, Union for Reform Judaism, and Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.” Also see: Dozens of members of Congress urge Trump to select envoy on Jew-hatred (Jewish News Syndicate 3/19/25)
  • [INVESTIGATE TRUMP ADMIN CORRUPTION] 3/18/25: Warren, Raskin, Blumenthal, Lawmakers Push White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles on Trump Administration Corruption [letter text] – “…Finally, unlike during his first term — when the Trump Organization vowed that ‘[n]o new foreign deals will be made whatsoever during the duration of President Trump’s presidency’ — this time, his organization is opening the door to new deals with foreign private actors while he is president. Indeed, President Trump recently expressed interest in ‘clean[ing] out’ the Gaza Strip and forcing out its people to make way for real estate developments that would capitalize on Gaza’s ‘phenomenal location, on the sea.‘”
  • [STILL NEED ANSWERS ON IDF KILLING OF AMCIT IN WEST BANK] letter dated 3/14/25: On 3/18/25, Zeteo’s Prem Thakker posted on X: “8 members of Congress are asking Marco Rubio for answers on the killing of American Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi. Blinken never responded to a similar letter. Now 194 days since Israeli forces killed her. Signed: Sens Welch, Murray, Sanders, Merkley, Van Hollen Reps Jayapal, Jacobs, Castro” [letter text page 1, page 2]

3. Hearings

March 27, 2025: The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee will hold a hearing entitled,Antisemitic Disruptions on Campus: Ensuring Safe Learning Environments for All Students. Witnesses have not yet been announced. Also see:

Jewish Insider 3/14/25: Huckabee set for confirmation hearing during week of March 24

4. Selected Members on the Record

We support — to varying degrees — Israel breaking the ceasefire (and blame Hamas for ending the ceasefire, actual facts notwithstanding), moving ahead with ethnic cleansing/genocide of every man/woman/child in Gaza!

  • Sherman (D-CA) 3/20/25: X-post – “Once again, a lie gets halfway around the world before the truth can put its socks on. The usual suspects are out in full force claiming that #Israel’s strikes this week targeted civilians – when in fact, even Hamas itself admits that the strikes successfully eliminated a number of their senior commanders, in addition to many more lower-level members of Hamas, PIJ, and the Popular Resistance Committees. Hamas could have extended the ceasefire by releasing additional hostages. Instead, they chose to continue the war they started on October 7th.“
  • Gonzalez (R-TX) 3/20/25: X-post – “For 531 days, Hamas has held 59 people, including five Americans, hostage. We must bring every one of them home. I condemn Hamas for once again rejecting American offers to extend the ceasefire by freeing more hostages. The terror group is responsible for this war and what’s happening now in Gaza. America must always stand with our ally Israel in this fight of good versus evil.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 3/20/25: X-post – “Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit the missile battery part of Israel’s Iron Dome. The same defense system that intercepted these rockets. I will continue to support whatever Israel needs to confront this cowardly terrorism.“
  • Davis (D-NC) 3/20/25: X-post – “Hamas has rejected multiple ceasefire extensions and continues to hold innocent hostages—a direct threat not just to Israel’s security, but to regional stability. No nation can allow terrorists to dictate terms through violence. The U.S. and our allies must stand firm: Hamas must release the hostages and end its attacks.“
  • Kean (R-NJ) 3/20/25: X-post – “Hamas could have ended this war months ago, they could even end it today by releasing the hostages being held in Gaza for over 521 days. Israel will not rest and America will remain at our ally’s side until every hostage is returned and Israel is safe from the threat of terrorism. Let’s be clear: the only thing standing in the way of peace is Hamas.“
  • Soto (R-FL) 3/19/25: X-post – “Nearly 60 families have relatives still held hostage in Gaza. Hamas had agreed to release them and now refuses. Israel has a right to defend its people. Hamas must honor the peace agreement for peace to return to the region.“
  • Fischbach (R-MN) 3/19/25: X-post – “Hamas has rejected multiple offers to extend the ceasefire deal and FREE THE HOSTAGES. Israel is not going to stand by and let the terrorists win. I pray for the strength of the Israelis and for Hamas to free the hostages. #StandWithIsrael“
  • Hern (R-OK) 3/19/25: X-post – “Why is @AP pushing Hamas propaganda instead of demanding the release of innocent hostages, including Americans? This war in Gaza could end today—Hamas just has to release the innocent people they’ve held in brutal captivity for more than 520 days. I stand with Israel in their fight to defeat Hamas. The only thing standing in the way of a lasting peace is Hamas!“
  • Hamadeh (R-AZ) 3/19/25: X-post – “America First Doesn’t Mean America Alone. Congressman Hamadeh stands with our allies and against the terrorist scourge of Hamas.” Statement “Hamas could have ended the war in Gaza months ago by surrendering and free the hostages. It refuses to do so. America must always stand with our allies. American First doesn’t mean American alone.“
  • Moskowitz (D-FL) 3/19/25: X-post – “Hamas could end this war right now if it released the hostages held in Gaza. It could’ve done so months ago, but instead it’s brought devastation by prolonging this conflict. America must lead the world in pressuring Hamas to end this war and bring the hostages home.“
  • Barr (R-KY) 3/19/25: X-post – “Hamas could have ended the war in Gaza months ago by surrendering and releasing hostages—but it refuses. Over the past weeks, the U.S. helped broker ceasefire deals to free hostages. Israel accepted them. Hamas rejected them. The devastation in Gaza lies squarely on Hamas. Israel is taking strong action to protect its people and free the hostages. America must stand firmly with Israel—our ally in the fight against terror.”
  • Schneider (D-IL) 3/19/25: Schneider Statement on Renewed Fighting in Gaza [“The breakdown of the ceasefire and resumption of deadly violence in Gaza is deeply concerning. The renewed fighting underscores once again the devastating cost of Hamas’s intransigence and its disregard for both Palestinian and Israeli lives. Hamas’s insistence on holding hostages as leverage is reprehensible. Their refusal to engage seriously in efforts toward a lasting ceasefire, despite sustained diplomatic conversations, has precipitated the tragic events unfolding now. The humanitarian toll of these renewed hostilities is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Israel has the right to defend itself and to act decisively to secure the release of hostages and to ensure the safety of its citizens. However, continued violence and instability cannot be the solution. It is imperative that diplomatic channels remain open and active. I strongly encourage all involved parties, with support from the United States and regional mediators, to urgently resume negotiations aimed at swiftly restoring a durable ceasefire so that the next phase of hostage releases can take place. It is critical to prioritize humanitarian considerations and the release of hostages as core components of any renewed dialogue.“]
  • Newhouse (R-WA) 3/19/25: X-post – “Hamas has passed on multiple opportunities to end the war in Gaza, yet Israel appears to be the only party interested in ending the violence. The U.S. has already brokered TWO deals to extend the ceasefire, but Hamas refuses to accept. The United States will continue to support Israel and their right to defend themselves and defeat their enemies.“
  • Grothman (R-WI) 3/19/25: X-post – “In the past few weeks, President Trump has brokered two peace agreements to end the war in Gaza. Israel has accepted both and Hamas has accepted neither. Hamas could have ended this war long ago but has chosen instead to prolong it. Remember, Hamas started this conflict on October 7, 2023. I stand with our ally Israel in defending themselves against terror and call on Hamas to release the remaining 59 hostages and earnestly come to the table to end this war.“
  • Risch (R-ID) 3/18/25: X-post – “I support Israel’s return to fighting in Gaza to root out Hamas terrorists once and for all, especially after Hamas rejected the latest hostage proposal. Hamas will have no place in this world as a military or political entity. Full stop.“
  • Auchincloss (D-MA) 3/18/25: X-post – “Everyone wants a ceasefire to persist, but only one organization has the power to make that happen: Hamas. The terrorists must release all hostages, lay down their arms, and renounce any role in the governance of Gaza. The United States should continue to support Israel in pursuing these ends and defending itself.“
  • Rouzer (R-NC) 3/18/25: X-post – “Hamas had the opportunity to end the war months ago by surrendering and releasing the hostages, but chose not to. While Israel accepted two ceasefire agreements brokered by the United States, Hamas rejected them. The U.S. must ensure Israel has the support and resources necessary to defend their citizens.“
  • LaLota (R-NY) 3/18/25: X-post – “Every October 7th hostage must be brought home. Hamas’ brutality can’t go unanswered—they must be held accountable. The U.S. must stand with Israel and demand justice. We won’t stop fighting until the innocent are free.”
  • Harrigan (R-NC) 3/18/25: X-post – “Israel didn’t choose this war, but they will finish it. Hamas has earned every bit of what’s coming.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 3/18/25: X-post – “A: Hamas does not want peace. I unapologetically, 100% stand with Israel, and demand the release of all remaining hostages. Sending this from Israel.“
  • Kim (D-NJ) 3/18/25: X-post – “The resumption of conflict in Gaza is not the path to take. I urge Hamas to immediately agree to the ceasefire extension and release of the remaining hostages, and for the Israeli government to halt the escalation and reopen up access to humanitarian support.”
  • Scott (R-FL) 3/18/25: X-post – “Iran-backed Hamas terrorists had 529 days to release all the hostages. They didn’t. This is who Hamas is – terrorists who kill innocent babies and people in cold blood, rape young women, kidnap and destroy families, and lie. The United States stands strong with Israel. We must destroy Hamas and finally bring every last hostage home!”
  • Baumgartner (R-WA) 3/18/25: X-post – “Last month I had the opportunity to meet with survivors and family members of Hamas viscous attack on Israeli citizens. Their stories were heartbreaking. Hamas MUST IMMEDIATELY release the remaining 59 hostages, including 5 American citizens. They are not forgotten and they are a priority as America stands with Israel in the face on ongoing security threats in the region.“

We have issues — to varying degrees — with Israel breaking the ceasefire, moving ahead with ethnic cleansing/genocide of every man/woman/child in Gaza!

  • DeSaulnier (D-CA) 3/20/25: X-post – “Netanyahu has turned his back on the ceasefire by resuming bombing of Gaza and killing hundreds more Palestinian civilians. Israel should immediately heed the pleas of security experts and the international community, halt the large-scale bombing underway, and return to the negotiating table. My priority remains the release of Israeli hostages and the protection of innocent lives in Gaza, and Netanyahu’s current actions put both in harm’s way.“
  • McCollum (D-MN) 3/20/25: X-post – “Prime Minister Netanyahu’s unilateral decision to end the ceasefire and resume Israeli military activity in Gaza is outrageous. The civilian casualties from these new Israeli strikes have been appalling.“
  • Thompson (D-CA) 3/19/25: X-post- “Read my statement on the breakdown of the ceasefire in Israel and Gaza below. — Deeply concerned and heartbroken that the ceasefire in Israel and Gaza that the Trump Administration claimed credit for securing has been violated. The Trump Administration must work immediately to bring both parties back to the ceasefire negotiations, protect civilians, free the hostages, and establish a peaceful path forward.“
  • Nadler (D-NY) 3/19/25: X-post – “I am deeply disturbed by Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision to abandon the ceasefire agreement, return to war, and welcome Itamar Ben Gvir back into the government as Minister of National Security. This choice puts the safety of the remaining hostages, including American citizens, at grave risk, and will make an already desperate situation for Gazan civilians substantially worse. The return to war will not bring Israel greater security, nor is it likely to achieve Netanyahu’s stated goal of fully eradicating Hamas. It will bring a greater level of stability to Netanyahu’s government and allows him to continue to attempt to defer the day he faces final judgment in court. There are simply too many lives at stake. The United States must impress clearly to all parties the need for the immediate return of the hostages, a lasting ceasefire agreement, and a constant and consistent flow of humanitarian aid. Today’s actions are a step backward for all who seek an enduring peace in the region. I urge all parties and the international community to do everything in their power to bring calm and stability to the region as quickly as possible. These are necessary steps on the path to pursuing a better future for the region and, in the long-term, achieving a viable and negotiated two-state solution.”
  • Beyer (D-VA) 3/19/25: X-post – “Netanyahu’s decision to reignite the war in Gaza is a tragedy in the making. My full statement: ‘Netanyahu’s decision to reignite the war in Gaza as opposed to moving to phase 2 of the ceasefire is a tragedy in the making. Renewed fighting makes the safe return of Israeli hostages less likely, while increasing the suffering of civilians in Gaza who are already being denied basic humanitarian assistance. Poll after poll shows that the majority of Israelis oppose this course of action. It is a catastrophe that instead of working to maintain and expand upon the ceasefire they helped negotiate, the Trump Administration has engaged in ethnic cleansing fantasies and effectively given the a blank check to Netanyahu and his extremist coalition partners to restart the war. The United States must push for a next phase that puts end to the unconscionable civilian bloodshed, and sets the stage for a durable solution that allows Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, security, and dignity without Hamas control of Gaza.'”
  • Velasquez (D-NY) 3/19/25: X-post – “Netanyahu is bombing Gaza again after starving Palestinians for weeks, killing hundreds & violating the ceasefire. The US can’t keep enabling this. Last month, I joined resolutions to block offensive weapons sales to Israel. We must act now to stop the bloodshed.”
  • Pressley (D-MA) 3/18/25: X-post – “After weeks of blocking food, water & fuel, the Israeli govt has resumed its bombing of Gaza—slaughtering over 400 Palestinians & putting the remaining hostages at risk. Unconscionable. The US must stop funding this genocide & use every diplomatic tool to restore the ceasefire.”
  • Castro (R-TX) 3/18/25: X-post – “I am extremely disturbed that hundreds of Palestinian civilians have been killed in just the last day. Reigniting this war does not make Israel safer or free the hostages. The ceasefire agreement that was reached in January is the best way to achieve lasting security for Palestinians and Israelis. Prime Minister Netanyahu is prioritizing his own political survival while making long term peace much harder to achieve.“
  • Simon (D-CA) 3/18/25: X-post – “I am incredibly alarmed by the Israeli airstrikes launched on Gaza this morning. Humanitarian aid has been blocked for 2 weeks, and now innocent civilians and children are being killed. My heart breaks for the families who have lost loved ones. These military actions endanger the lives of Palestinians in Gaza, the lives of any remaining hostages, and the ceasefire deal that is essential to ending this war.“
  • Casar (D-TX) 3/18/25: X-post – “The Israeli government has started bombing Gaza again, in violation of the negotiated ceasefire, after blocking food, water, and aid for weeks. We must stop sending offensive weapons to the Israeli government. We cannot continue to be complicit in Netanyahu’s assault on Palestinian families.“
  • Welch (D-VT) 3/18/25: X-post – “After illegally blocking emergency food to Gaza, the Israeli government launched an attack overnight that killed more than 400 Palestinians, including over 170 children. The deaths of civilians will only make it harder to reach a lasting peace and ensure the return of the hostages.”
  • Pocan (D-WI) 3/18/25: X-post – “My heart breaks for the already 400+ killed in just the last day from this senseless violence. Netanyahu reigniting this war risks the lives of the remaining hostages, innocent Gazan civilians, and any semblance of peace in the region. If Netanyahu stays, he hurts Israel. It’s time for him to go & it’s time to end this war once and for all.”
  • Jayapal (D-WI) 3/18/25: X-thread – “Unacceptable. New Israeli strikes have killed more than 400 & injured more than 500 people. Essential aid has not entered Gaza for more than 2 weeks and people are starving. Israel has violated the negotiated ceasefire. Last month, I introduced resolutions with @RepRashida to halt offensive weapons sales to Israel. We cannot allow American bombs to continue to fuel this violence. With each weapons sale, we are complicit in this war.“
  • Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) 3/18/25: X-post – “Netanyahu has blocked aid to Gaza for two weeks. Last night, he ordered strikes that killed over 400 Palestinians, endangered hostages, and broke a fragile ceasefire. Congress must uphold our laws and stop further weapons transfers to Israel.“
  • Sanders (I-VT) 3/18/25: X-post – “Netanyahu has not allowed any food, water, or fuel into Gaza in two weeks. Now he has resumed bombing, killing hundreds of people and breaking the ceasefire that had given Gaza a chance to live again. NO MORE MILITARY AID TO ISRAEL.”
  • Lee (D-PA) 3/18/25: X-post – “Once again our timelines are flooded with horrific images of Palestinian babies massacred by the Israeli government. Israel has consistently violated the ceasefire and in the past two weeks, cut off all aid to Gaza. Just last night, they killed 400+ people. This US-backed genocide must end.”
  • Watson Coleman (D-NJ) 3/18/25: X-post – “Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has not allowed any humanitarian aid into Gaza in two weeks. Last night, Israel killed over 419 Palestinians using US weapons, paid for by our tax dollars. This cannot go on. If there is to be any chance of peace and the return of hostages, the US Congress must stop this escalation by blocking Trump’s billions in weapons giveaways to Israel.”
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 3/18/25: X-post – “The Israeli apartheid regime has resumed its genocide, carrying out airstrikes all across Gaza and killing hundreds of Palestinians. This comes after a complete blockade of food, electricity, and aid. They will never stop until there are sanctions and an arms embargo.“
  • Smith (D-WA) 3/18/25: Representative Smith Statement on Gaza Reconstruction Plan [“Last week, Arab leaders endorsed an Egyptian-led plan for reconstruction of the Gaza Strip. The $53 billion plan for reconstruction would take place over five years and covered issues including immediate crisis repair, the construction of permanent housing and infrastructure, and plans to stimulate future economic growth. There’s much more work that needs to be done before this plan could become a reality, as it fails to address details over the governance of Gaza and security arrangements for the region. However, despite its flaws, this proposal was a much-needed step forward for negotiations necessary to uphold the ceasefire and bring us closer to the ultimate goal of a two-state solution. It is critical that the Trump Administration and the Israeli government take this starting point seriously and offer constructive feedback to continue the dialogue. We must be clear-eyed that Trump’s A.I.-fever-dream of a ‘Gaza Riviera’ is an unacceptable option. Trump’s proposal would only result in the forcible displacement of over 2 million Palestinians and further destabilization of the region. We must have a path forward that can lead to both legitimate Palestinian self-governance and security for Israel. The Egyptian plan for Gaza reconstruction is a starting point for how we can build a sustainable peace and must be taken seriously by Israel and the Trump Administration.”]
  • Connolly (D-VA) 3/18/25: Connolly Statement on Resumption of Conflict in Gaza [“Israel and Hamas must recommit to the implementation of a ceasefire and secure an end to this brutal war. Hamas must release all hostages, Israel must stop the escalation and allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, and both parties must work toward an extension of the ceasefire. The hostages deserve to be reunited with their families, Palestinians deserve to live safe and dignified lives, and the region deserves lasting peace.”]

Targeting Foreigners in the US for Political Opinions/Free Speech Critical of Israel

  • Mace (R-NC) 3/20/25: X-post – “Any green card holders present? Might need to pull an Mahmoud Khalil.” [responding to report on a protest in front of the White House against US bombing of Yemen]
  • Johnson (R-LA) 3/20/25: X-post – “As Chuck Schumer tries to sell his new book on antisemitism, remember that when my Republican colleagues and I faced the vicious protest mob at Columbia last year and called on the university president to resign if she refused to restore order and protect Jewish students—Schumer was nowhere to be seen. In fact, our House investigation found later he actually advised university officials to ‘keep their heads down’ and avoid meeting with Republicans.” [with link to video of Johnson and friends facing an self-evidently NOT “vicious protest mob” at Columbia]
  • Beyer (D-VA) 3/20/25: Beyer Statement On Badar Khan Suri [“Badar Khan Suri’s detention is a clear violation of his constitutional rights, and he must be released. Mr. Suri is here lawfully and is not accused of a crime, yet he was surrounded outside the Northern Virginia home where he lives with his wife – an American citizen – and their children, arrested by masked authorities without explanation, disappeared, imprisoned, denied access to legal counsel, and had his student visa revoked. The ‘justification’ given for these violations of Mr. Suri’s right to due process is another violation of the Constitution: a blatant attack on the First Amendment. Mr. Suri and his family are unfortunately the latest victim of President Trump’s assault on the freedom of speech. Trump has made no effort to disguise the fact that the arrests of academics like Suri and Mahmoud Khalil is intended to have a chilling effect and discourage the free expression of political views which Trump dislikes. In both cases, the administration has punished speech with frightening, extreme measures that, if it happened in another country, most of us would not hesitate to call ‘authoritarianism.’ It is authoritarianism, and while some will find false consolation in their own disagreements with the views expressed by those detained, the truth is that the horrifying precedent established by these cases may lead to the persecution of other individuals and groups with unforeseen consequences. The courts must consider Mr. Suri’s case with all possible speed, given the administration’s track record of attempting to deny constitutional rights in ways that are difficult to undo before judicial remedies can be provided. Above all, the administration must stop its assault on the Bill of Rights, and until it does all reasonable people who claim to defend the Constitution must oppose what is happening to Badar Khan Suri.”] Also see: Beyer’s X-thread
  • Blackburn (R-TN) 3/20/25: X-post – “DHS has arrested a foreign exchange student who had close ties to the terrorist group Hamas and spread their propaganda. Let it be known that visas are not a right, and associating yourself with enemies of the United States will result in a one way ticket home.”
  • House Foreign Affairs Committee (GOP) 3/20/25: X-post – “Foreign nationals do not have a right to come to OUR country and try to destabilize it by doing the bidding of foreign terrorist organizations. Kick every single one out!“
  • Cammack (R-FL) 3/19/25: X-post – “‘I think we need to take a hammer to [reassess] the students that have abused the privileges that have been afforded to them to study in this country,’ said Rep. Cammack this morning on the @FaulknerFocus of the anti-Israel protests in NYC.”
  • House Foreign Affairs Committee (GOP) 3/19/25: X-post – “Mahmoud Khalil says he’s a political prisoner. We say to him: you can go home to Syria or Algeria anytime. You are free. You just can’t stay in OUR country.”
  • Blackburn (R-TN) 3/18/25: If You Visit America and Support Terrorism, You Will Be Deported [“One thing should be clear: With President Trump back in the Oval Office and Republicans in the majority in Congress, pro-Hamas activists and colleges are going to face accountability. And if you are visiting our great nation and supporting terrorism, you will be deported.“]
  • Johnson (R-LA) 3/18/25: X-post – “This is very simple: If you attend the funeral of a terrorist leader who killed hundreds of Americans, support terrorist organizations, or terrorize members of your community, you are a security threat. A visa that gets you INTO America does NOT give you a right to STAY in America.”
  • Blackburn (R-TN) 3/18/25: X-post – “The Trump administration just deported a Brown University professor who glorified known enemies to the United States, all while she was in our country on a visa. Good. Terrorist sympathizers have no right to be here.”

Targeting US NGOs & the United Nations

  • Torres (D-NY) 3/20/25: X-post – “Is the UN outraged by Hamas for starting a war that has brought immense suffering to both Israelis and Palestinians? Since October 7th, the UN’s outrage has been strikingly selective, adopting far more resolutions against Israel than Hamas, even though Hamas started the war on 10/7 and even though Hamas continues the war it started by holding 59 hostages in captivity for 530 days.”
  • Rosen (D-NV) 3/20/25: X-post – “Deeply concerned by reports of a UNHRC one-sided proposal that unfairly targets Israel and doesn’t acknowledge Hamas atrocities. The global community must push back on this anti-Israel effort.“
  • Tenney (R-NY) 3/19/25: X-post – “Just as President Trump withdrew federal funding from Columbia University for supporting anti-Semitic behavior, all tax-exempt benefits should be revoked from any group that supports terrorist organizations.”
  • Graham (R-SC) 3/18/25: X-post – “Let me be clear – if there is any effort by the UN Human Rights Council, which has become a joke, to create a mechanism to bring action against Israeli citizens through the UN, it will be met with fire and fury in Congress. The corrupt ICC has been marginalized and any effort to substitute a UN organization to go after Israel will jeopardize any and all funding, and any nation that aids and abets in the endeavor will face sanctions. I hope this is all bluster, time will tell.“

Israel Making Common Cause with Trump Admin in Targeting Independent Judiciary

  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 3.19/25: X-post – “This says it all. Trump, Netanyahu, and Musk — like right wing autocrats worldwide — detest the rule of law. They want to make up their own rules. We must fight back against this wave of lawlessness to protect democracy.“

Targeting the Houthis

Other stuff

  • Scott (R-FL) 3/20/25: X-post – “The United States will never forget the evil acts of Iran-backed Hamas terrorists on October 7th, 2023. Thank you, @AGPamBondi, for ensuring justice is served for the families of Americans kidnapped by these monsters and committing to fight against antisemitism on all fronts.” [responding to:Justice Department Announces Launch of Joint Task Force October 7]
  • Nadler (D-NY) 3/20/25: X-post – “The head of the DOJ’s antisemitism task force literally shared a post from a neo-Nazi involved in Charlottesville. I’ll say it as many times as it takes: if the Trump Administration was serious about combatting antisemitism, they should start by combatting the antisemitism in their own ranks.“
  • Fry (R-SC) 3/19/25: X-post – “A new task force has been created to provide justice to victims of the October 7th terrorist attack on Israel. One thing is for sure, while President Trump sits in the Oval Office, there will be consequences for those who support terrorism.“
  • Frankel (D-FL) 3/18/25: X-post – “.@ADL’s new report raises serious concerns about antisemitic and anti-Israel bias on Wikipedia, a website millions around the world rely on for information. There must be clear standards, greater transparency, and safeguards to prevent bad-faith actors from distorting the truth.“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 3/18/25: PHOTO RELEASE: Gottheimer Discusses Rising Antisemitism and Provides Update on Israel-Hamas Conflict at Jewish Center of Teaneck
  • Bacon (R-NE) 3/18/25: X-post – “I’ve talked to several Israeli fighter pilots and they all told me the F-35 is EXCEEDING all expectations.“
  • Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) 3/16/25: X-post – “A modern day Esther, Nita Lowey was a mentor and valiant fighter for the Jewish community, women and reproductive freedom. The first woman House Appropriations Committee chair, she was known globally for fighting for humanitarian aid and support for Israel.“
  • Rosen (D-NV) 3/16/25: X-post – “Deeply saddened by the news of my friend Chairwoman Nita Lowey’s passing. A force to be reckoned with on so many issues, she was a lifelong champion of the U.S.-Israel relationship who created the MEPPA program to keep her hope for peace in the region alive and a passionate advocate for U.S. foreign assistance who worked across the aisle to save countless lives around the world. She will be missed dearly. May her memory be a blessing.”

5. Selected Media

Spotlight on Chuck Schumer

Fetterman in Israel

Other stuff